NCLEX: Common Lab Values
Master the essential lab values crucial for NCLEX success with this focused flashcard deck. Covering 15 high-yield laboratory tests, these cards provide normal ranges and key clinical significance to help you confidently interpret patient data. Prepare effectively for questions involving electrolyte imbalances, organ function, hematology, and coagulation studies.
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What is the normal range for serum sodium?
135–145 mEq/L.
What is the normal range for serum potassium?
3.5–5.0 mEq/L; values outside it can cause dangerous dysrhythmias.
What is the normal range for total serum calcium?
About 8.5–10.5 mg/dL (some references use 9.0–10.5).
What is the normal range for serum magnesium?
About 1.3–2.1 mEq/L (roughly 1.6–2.6 mg/dL).
What is the normal range for BUN?
10–20 mg/dL.
What is the normal range for serum creatinine?
About 0.6–1.2 mg/dL; it is a more specific marker of kidney function than BUN.
What is the normal hemoglobin range?
About 12–16 g/dL for women and 14–18 g/dL for men.
What is the normal hematocrit range?
About 37–47% for women and 42–52% for men.
What is the normal white blood cell count?
About 5,000–10,000/mm³ (many labs use 4,500–11,000).
What is the normal platelet count?
150,000–400,000/mm³.
What is a normal fasting blood glucose?
70–99 mg/dL; 100–125 mg/dL is prediabetes.
What HbA1c is normal?
Below 5.7%; it reflects average glucose over about 2–3 months.
What are the normal PT and INR?
PT about 11–12.5 seconds; INR about 0.8–1.1.
What INR is the usual target for a patient on warfarin?
2.0–3.0 for most indications.
What is the normal aPTT?
About 30–40 seconds.
What is the normal arterial blood pH?
7.35–7.45.